Cricket Far North: Dream Team: Dan Freebody reveals his Dream Teammates XI

Fresh off his first year in the new position as Cricket Far North’s president, Dan Freebody reveals who is in his Far North dream team. Find out who makes it here >>>

Norths cricketer Daniel Freebody picks his Dream Team. PICTURE: ANNA ROGERS

Cricket Far North president and high quality all-rounder Dan Freebody continues to have a stellar career in the Far North.

Currently at Norths, Freebody has played with the best of the best and found it challenging to pick only twelve of his current and previous Norths, Colts, United and Barron River teammates. Check out the full line-up below.

1. Cam Davis (United and Norths)

One of the most rock solid opening batsmen the region has seen in the past 20 years. Cam Davis is a two-day specialist and a very handy bowling option. He remains a top-order lock in the current Norths first-grade side.

Norths batsman Cam Davis in the Cricket Far North semi final match between Barron and Norths, held at Crathern Park, Trinity Beach. Picture: Brendan Radke

2. Bevan Ahkee (Colts)

Freebody said he only played a handful of games with Bevan Ahkee when he was starting grade cricket, however he understood why he is one of the region’s greatest talents in the past few decades. Ahkee was still making runs for Colts late into his career and batted with poise and class.

Bevan Ahkee from United hits the ball in the A grade Cricket match between United and Innisfail at Griffiths Park. 03/03/2007

3. Darren Lees (Norths)

Darren Lees was a fantastic cricketer who was always in the runs and a big asset to any batting line up. Lees played a key role in Norths’ domination in the mid-2000s and is worthy of the first drop spot.

Norths Darren Lees. Cricket at Griffiths park. Norths v Barron River.

4. Steve Porta (United)

Steve Porta was an incredibly talented cricketer who had the knack for smashing the red leather around the park. He consistently took the attack to the opposition, unleashing vicious shots to unsettle bowlers. Additionally, he proved to be a valuable addition to any bowling lineup with his tall, fast leg spin.

United batsman Steve Porta. Cricket Far North Twenty20 match between United (batting) and Atherton (Fielding) played at Cazalys.

5. Chris Stanger (Norths)

Chris Stanger was a force to be reckoned with the ability to dismantle bowling attacks with his powerful stroke play. Additionally, Stranger possessed the skill to bowl fast leg breaks, adding versatility to his game. A true match-winner on the field.

Chris Stanger batting for Lions during rounds 3 and 4 of Townsville's Tropical Big Bash cricket, July 2023. Picture: Antony Stewart.

6. Angus Warnock (Norths) (WK)

A consistent punisher of the short ball, Angus Warnock is a talented cricketer who can pull bowling attacks apart. Arguably the best wicket-keeper in the Far North, he uses his sharp reflexes and exceptional anticipation to play his part in the field, while a leader on and off the field.

Norths' Gus Warnock. Cricket Far North 2018-19 first-grade 40-over final- Game 3. Mulgrave v Norths at Griffiths Park. Picture: Stewart McLean

7. Thomas Maher (Norths) (C)

Mr Consistency. Thomas Maher is one of the biggest names of the past 20 years. Lethal with ball and bat, Maher is named captain of the side for his strong leadership and outstanding quality as a player.

Thomas Maher takes the ball to bowl for Norths. The A grade cricket grand final played between Norths and United. United batted first in the first innings. 24/03/2007

8. Linden March (United and Norths)

Linden March is an immensely talented all-rounder who can adapt his game to the situation. When required, he can play the field and push the run rate or dig in, defend his wicket and drive runs at a safe rate. A top quality pace bowler who enjoyed challenging the top cricketers in the region.

Linden March of the Norths celebrates taking a wicket during Saturdays match against Norths at Griffiths Park in Manunda. Picture Emily Barker.

9. Mark Ellis (Norths)

Mark Ellis is a great team man and an exceptional fielder. Ellis bowls traditional leg spin and is renowned for taking bags of wickets and flipping games on their head. He has become a solid batsman in the past few years.

Cricket Far North spinner Mark Ellis competing at the Bulls Masters 2023.

10. Brendan Smith (Norths)

Brendan Smith was a tall ‘Glen McGrath’ like bowler who’d consistently bowl line and length. A very handy cricketer who batted six in his last season before retirement, however batted much higher in his prime. A terrific teammate throughout his career.

Brad Smith bowls for Norths in their Cricket Far North match against Mulgrave, held at Griffiths Park, Manunda. Picture: Brendan Radke

11. Kyll Wright (Norths)

Kyll Wright is a fast left arm bowler who’d knock over top order bats on a consistent basis.

Embraced the challenge of charging at the best bowlers in the Far North and would usually come out on top. Freebody said he is unfairly batting at 11 as Wright could whack them.

Norths bowler Kyll Wright celebrates with teammates after a successful LBW against Atherton at the Cricket Far North 2017-18 T20 final. Atherton v Norths at Griffiths Park. Picture: Justin Brierty

12th man: Jordan Fulton (Barron River)

Jordan Fulton has consistently ranked among the leading wicket-takers for many seasons.

Freebody said he was unlucky to miss out on a starting spot, but remians a danger to any batsman in the region with his potency and relentless effort in his performances.

Jordan Fulton of Barron River Bowls during Saturdays match between the Cassowary Coast Cyclones and Barron River at Trinity Beach Sporting grounds. Picture Emily Barker.

Originally published as Cricket Far North: Dream Team: Dan Freebody reveals his Dream Teammates XI